Universal Sports Network Extends IAAF Media Rights Agreement Until 2019

Universal Sports Network has extended its media rights agreement with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) until 2019.

 The deal, finalized with the IAAF’s commercial partner, Dentsu Inc., gives Universal Sports, which already has rights to the IAAF World Championships, Beijing 2015, multiplatform rights, including exclusive TV and Internet rights, to all IAAF World Athletic Series events in track & field, cross-country, race walking and half-marathon including the IAAF World Championships, London 2017, and the 2019 edition whose located will be decided by the IAAF in November 2014.

Encompassing international junior and senior track & field events, the agreement also includes rights to the IAAF World Indoor Championships in 2016 and 2018; IAAF World Junior Championships in 2016 and 2018; IAAF World Youth Championships in 2017 and 2019; IAAF World Cross Country Championships in 2017 and 2019; IAAF World Race Walking Cup in 2016 and 2018; IAAF World Half Marathon Championships in 2016 and 2018; and IAAF Continental Cup in 2018.

“Universal Sports’ commitment to track and field has never been stronger,” said Robert James, SVP of content and communications at Universal Sports. “This new extension with the IAAF propels us intothe future of the sport, showcasing both world-class athletes and up-and-coming stars from around the globe.”

“I am delighted that our partnership with Universal Sports has been extended through to 2019,” confirmed IAAF President Lamine Diack. “American fans will continue to enjoy World Championship athletics and the full array of other IAAF World Athletics Series competitions across the mediums of terrestrial, cable and internet. We firmly believe that the consistent high level coverage of our eventsoffered by Universal Sports is the key to Athletics making a genuine impact in households across the USA.”